Abbotsford, BC (April 19, 2024) – Western Community College (WCC) is soaring to new heights as the only International Air Transport Association (IATA) Authorized Training Centre in Canada to offer IATA certified aviation training programs, other than the IATA itself. The IATA designs and develops training programs in all areas of airline operations applicable for all airlines globally, such as cabin crew training, cargo and logistics, air navigation and ground operations.
“Western Community College’s new aviation training program authorized by IATA is a game-changing initiative that marks a significant milestone in aviation education,” says Gurpal Dhaliwal, President, Western Community College. “We are proud to be the only authorized training centre in Canada other than the IATA itself to offer IATA authorized airline operations training, including cabin crew training, which will give our graduating students the advantage of having this training before their competitors, giving them a leg up when applying for aviation jobs globally.”
“The aviation industry in Canada stands as a cornerstone of the nation's transportation network and a vital component of our economy, directly employing approximately 160,000 people across the country,” says Sohail Mahmood Durrani, Head of Aviation Training at WCC. “We're thrilled to offer a comprehensive suite of IATA designed and developed airline operations programs and Transport Canada certified pilot training programs to provide students with a comprehensive and immersive educational experience to foster the next generation of skilled aviators.”
WCC aviation students will gain invaluable, hands-on, real-world experience being trained on the reliable CESSNA 172, an aircraft renowned for its safety and versatility.
● Commercial Pilot License (CPL): This program takes the fundamentals to a professional level, preparing students for a career in commercial aviation.
● Night Rating: Specialized training that extends a pilot’s capabilities to operate at night, a critical skill for comprehensive flight readiness.
● Cabin Crew Training Program: This IATA certified program is crafted to ready students for the exciting world of airline hospitality, emphasizing customer service excellence and safety.